Shannon and Fonda Lee have given teen readers a really interesting start to a duology and I'm so grateful that while there are hints at Feelings, there isn't a romance in this first book (at least). Sixteen-year-old Jun makes for a good protagonist and I personally felt like a lot of his brash reactions were authentic to being a teen rather than having his behavior be more like an adult. The layers to the political intrigue were great and I appreciate that this didn't end on a full-on cliffhanger (which is what I was expecting).

I definitely want to know what happens next!

Eric Yang does a good job with the audiobook narration.

Advanced Reader’s Copy provided by NetGalley, Macmillan Audio, and Macmillan Young Listeners in exchange for an honest review.

This book was really difficult for me to get into. It follows Fonda Lee's writing style loosely and it is clear where Shannon Lee's input is. I loved the focus on martial arts but sometimes it just became monotonous and lengthy. Overall I don't think this book was for me. I did enjoy the narrator's voice, their voice was perfect for the tone of the book.

Love her so much and can not get over at the world's created in such short page counts I'm so obsessed with every word this author writes

Only a story written with the legacy of Bruce Lee in mind could entwine martial arts and a fierce fighting competition with an overall story of tolerance and peace. Shannon and Fonda (both Lees, unrelated) have brought us a truly ‘Lee’ story that is not only a lovely tribute, but also a good reminder that we should all endeavour to live in peace and tolerate one another. Only fighting if absolutely mandatory. And then of course you must fight smart, waste no energy, and be prepared for anything.

I took Jeet-Kune-Do, Bruce Lee’s personal martial art, for a couple years when I was much younger (but still an adult). It was recommended to me because at only 5’1” and (at the time) a slight figure; it was one martial art I might be able to execute and do well at. I was pretty awful, lol. But did appreciate learning to punch properly, parry, and conserve energy with small movements. I still do some of the exercises I was taught back then. I carried those learnings forward to Tai Chi (which I wish I could find time to fit back into my life). All of which helped me be deliberate in my breathing, and movements. I know you’re all thinking I’m not the active type. Which is correct, and why I chose activities that didn’t require great strength or energy to participate in. Something Bruce Lee was known for; and certainly espoused in Breath of the Dragon.

We are set-up perfectly for the next novel; without feeling cheap at the end. If you chose to stop here this could be considered a stand-alone fantasy with an open ended ending. I love the relationships that develop here, the understanding people get for one another, and the representation of grief, anger, and frustration combined to give rise to an unprecedented need to work hard to achieve a goal.

There is a lot to love here. You don’t need to be a lover of martial arts stories (I’m not and still enjoyed this), or a huge war story reader. There is an evenness and balance throughout the novel. Making the Breath of the Dragon accessible to any fantasy reader. It has high fantasy lore with magic, political intrigue and war rumblings, alongside character driven concepts, and a lead that truly comes to learn more of themselves throughout the novel.

This is a great read, and the beginning of what I hope is an epic fantasy series. Above all else I believe Bruce and Brandon Lee would both have appreciated the way fighting, war, fairness, and peace are portrayed. You must have equality, and a calm fierceness, to be the best fighter and the best person. Being a fighter alone is not something to be proud of, you must also be a worthy human being.

Please note: I received an eARC of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. This is an honest and unbiased review.

A beautiful blend of action, legacy, and philosophy. Reading this felt like a giant hug for the martial arts culture - I loved every moment of it!

Don’t sleep on this book! First of all, Fonda Lee is an amazing author so I knew I needed to read this book. Second, this book reads like an action adventure anime story and I loved every second. It was filled with fights, drama, political intrigue and characters you can’t help but want to know more about.

Astonishingly (for me), I loved that this book really didn’t have romance. This is a story about finding your place in the world and fighting for what’s right and it didn’t need romance. I loved Jun and Ren’s relationship but found it was perfect as found family.

I can’t wait to read the sequel to this story because I need to know what’s next for these characters! Also, I will definitely reread this book before book 2 because there are so many small hints and clues of foreshadowing in this story alone, that I wouldn’t want to miss any in the sequel.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

I've been hearing great things things about Fonda Lee's writing since I joined the book community. The problem is, after hearing soo much praise, I became a little too intimidated to pick up her books. However, when she announced she was writing a YA novel, I knew this would be a good place to start. And I'm so glad I did start here. Breath of the Dragon showcases Fonda Lee's incredible writing, yet is still super easy to follow. Despite being initially a little hesitant towards the premise, I found myself immediately immersed in this story. I love the main character, the plot moves at a clip, and I was wayyy more into the martial arts aspect of the book than I expected. I also really enjoyed the politics in this book. They're written with such maturity, and sometimes even brutality, yet they're still easy to follow for young readers. Overall, I was really impressed with this story, and the author's writing as a whole. The themes and character growth are so mature, yet the plot is so engaging and accessible. I think this balance creates a really perfect YA novel. I'm really glad I decided to pick this book up and look forward to reading the sequel when it comes out!

I'm excited to see where this goes! I thought the story was incredibly addicting and I just loved the way that Fonda Lee writes

**No major plot spoilers were harmed in the making of this review**

*I RECEIVED A FREE ARC OF THE AUDIOBOOK FROM NETGALLEY AND MACMILLIAN. THANK YOU A TON. THIS HAS NOT IMPACTED MY REVIEW IN ANY WAY, SHAPE OR FORM. **

“Marked or not, every one of us has Breath enough to will our own destiny into being.”

WELL, better late than never right? (Apologizes to the arc gods). But WOW, I was BLOWN AWAY by this book. This is a sleeper book and I am so sad it is not getting enough hype. I was...my experience with this book, this story, these characters, and this narrator was outstanding. I was completely immersed in the main characters world from the start. This story gripped me and spoke to my soul like no other has in a while. I do not know whether it was the writing, the messages on the page, the characters grit or determination, but man...this book will live rent free in my head and it is on its way to being on my book shelf as we speak. This book is more than just an asian ish fantasy with some magic and martial arts, it is a a rollercoaster of emotions and the self discovery journey of a guy who will steal your heart and your mind.

This book was off to the races from the beginning. It started with a bang and it was a wild ride from there. I feel like there was no breathing room in this book. There was no down time. Sure, there was some less action-y parts, but every chapter was critical to the story. I almost wish it had been longer! I absolutely also loved all the fighting scenes! Usually I get lost in the shuffle of all the moves and just skim to see who "won" but with this, the author and narrator worked together to showcase a fight from start to finish with enough depiction that I could almost visualize it in real time. The author took that time to connect each move and make it flow like water. It made some of the more intricate scenes more intense. I absolutely adored it and adored the main character.

The MC is just...so likeable and humble and human. You cannot help but want to root for the underdog with a semi tragic past. I wanted him to get what he worked for. I wanted him to suceed. The precious cinna roll deserved to be a hero in his own story. I loved his journey and the way he learns more and more with every chapter. He only gets stronger and tougher as time goes on. I do wish that there had been more explanation regarding one thing, but I think that is going to be revealed in the second book. But yes, I love the found family he made and the sense of kinship and loyalty. Yes, he went in alone, but that is not how he came out. I am stoked to see the end of his journey in the second book.

I loved the side characters too. They were not just chess pieces to move the plot. I started to CARE about them and their fates. I was shocked, I was appauled, I was sadden, every range of emotion. It was quite the trying time over here peeps. Which is also a testament to the narrator. It truly was like a movie. This EASILY could be movie worthy. I also love the threads of magic and tale that were interwoven into the history of this story. There was just enough to explain some stuff but not enough to be overwhelming. I definitely think there is more to be told in that regards. So sincerely, when is there going to be a book 2???

Remember, this is all my opinion. If you want your own, read/listen to the book!

This book wasn’t really for me, but I can see why others would enjoy it. I went in expecting to love it, but I found myself wanting more world-building to really immerse me in the story. I’m always up for a good fighting tournament, but the fight scenes didn’t quite pull me in. Maybe that’s because I’m not super familiar with martial arts, so some of the details were lost on me. That said, I think readers who enjoy fast-paced action without a heavy focus on setting will probably have a great time with it.

This is my very first time reading a book by Fonda and Shannon Lee and I’m so stoked about this one!!

What riveting writing and adventurous storytelling. I loved this book so much. And I normally don’t read books where a male is the main character so that says a lot!

The tournament was super fun to read about, as was Jun’s character development. I did however find other elements of the plot less engaging. I wish the authors had focused more on the tournament and that element, flushing out those pieces more. But I did love the friendships formed and the overall story. So I’d definitely recommend!

Thank you to NetGalley and Wednesday Books for the arc in exchange for an honest review!

Breath of the Dragon is a fantastic coming of age, tournament story that honors the traditions of Bruce Lee while welcoming a new audience into the world of fantasy martial arts. The story is fast-paced with incredible action, yet manages introspection and philosophy at the same time. When Shannon Lee set out to find a partner to bring her father’s stories to life she couldn’t have found a better match than Fonda Lee. The skills Lee brought to her brilliant Jade City trilogy are on display with a flair here, and the prose sings in the audiobook narration. A strong recommendation for any YA readers looking for their next adventure!

“The abilities that matter the most don’t come from Dragon’s blood. They’re gained day by day, through sweat and tears. Marked or not, every one of us has Breath enough to will our own destiny into being.”

Forewarning: despite what you may infer from the book’s title, there are no dragons.

Ten years after Jun is exiled and separated from his mother and breathmarked twin brother for practicing the forbidden skill of martial arts, he becomes a runaway from his father in the hopes of competing in the Guardian’s Tournament, and being named the best warrior in the country.

The plot offers an underdog character to root for, but the story reads too predictable and surface-level.
Using the death of Jun’s father as a plot device did not feel earned since the groundwork to lay an emotional foundation connecting the characters to the reader was not there.
I was disappointed to see that Jun’s brother did not have an active role in the story, as I think his character could’ve added a lot of depth and juxtaposition.

I am usually not a fan of YA books but wanted to give this one a try because of the cover and the synopsis. The book did not disappoint. It was fun, the pace was perfect, I liked the characters, and the world. The main character was a bit irritating at times, but then I had to remind myself that he’s only 16.

The world was very interesting, the idea of dragon scales and secret powers, was unique and kept me wanting to find more about the world. I can’t wait to find out more about Jun’s adventures and the secret scrolls.

The narration really made all the difference when it came to bringing this work to life. The storytelling was so cinematic and the narrator was able to keep that feeling going with their narration and it made this book that much more enjoyable!

Breath of the Dragon is the 1st-book in the Breathmarked duology, which is a YA-Fantasy story based on the characters and teachings of the iconic-Bruce Lee.

In this story, we're following Jun, a teen boy who is anxious to prove his worth as a warrior by entering the elite, and highly-competitive, Guardian's Tournament. Unfortunately, his path to the competition isn't an easy one. Even though he's eager to prove his skills, it seems everything is pitted against him competing, including his own father.

Determined to at least have a shot, Jun stows away in a wagon of performers, Chang and his daughter, Ren, headed to the capital city where the tournament will take place. Once the competition begins, Jun realizes that there may be a lot more at stake than just his own legacy.

This was such a great story, full of adventure and heart. It's truly well-written and I had no trouble getting swept up into the action. I am not sure how memorable the fine details will be for me long-term, but I did really enjoy my time with it. I highly recommend the audio as well. The narration brought the story to life, particularly in the fast-paced fight scenes.

I'm excited to see where the next book takes us. Without giving anything away, I'm expecting a huge reunion for our MC, Jun, which hopefully will provide him with a larger support system than he currently has. I'm so anxious to see how that goes and how this will ultimately conclude. As good as this was, I'm actually a little sad that it's only slated to be a duology. Regardless, I'm going to scoop it up so fast once it's released.

I was impressed with how quickly I was captivated by this. The initial set-up was so well executed. I loved going on this journey with Jun. I would recommend it to any Reader who enjoys action-packed YA-Fantasy stories. Thank you to the publisher, Wednesday Books and Macmillan Audio, for providing me with copies to read and review. I cannot wait for the 2nd-book!

I loved knowing that Shannon Lee was involved in writing this book and it was fun to see references to Bruce Lee’s style. Li Jun was an interesting main character - he started out as a selfish, short-sighted teenager who was a little difficult to root for. I enjoyed seeing him evolve over the course of the story as his knowledge and worldview expanded. The Guardian competition was a great centerpiece for the story and I’m excited to see where the story goes in book two.

The narrator was excellent and really brought these characters to life!

This was really well done and so entertaining! I have to admit I had low expectations for this... YA fiction hasn’t been working for me recently, and I have no particular interest or knowledge of martial arts. But this surprised me. The writing hooked me from the beginning, and it didn’t just start off strong, it stayed strong the whole way! I flew through this, and every time I had to put it down to work or sleep or shower, I wanted to pick it back up ASAP.

Honestly, this is one of the best YAs I’ve read in years! Well written, with fully fleshed out characters and a well thought out plot. It felt familiar, yet somehow still fresh. It’s “a love letter to martial arts”, with vibes like Avatar: The Last Airbender, Karate Kid, and Kung Fu Panda.

I really enjoyed this and am so happy I gave it a go! I can’t wait until the second book comes out! I think it’s gonna be a banger.

This novel is a perfect example of how careful and effective world-building lends itself to seemingly effortless twists later on. Fonda Lee and Shannon Lee managed to paint a fully realized portrait of Jun's world within the first few pages, and even as it developed, I was on the edge of my seat the entire time. At its core, the Breath of the Dragon is about a boy, Li Jun, who is desperate to prove himself to a world that believes he has nothing worthwhile to offer and to restore his father's honor. He's a stubborn 16-year-old boy, made of hard-earned skill and determination that reminds me of other classic young adult protagonists. Readers are sure to enjoy this book if they enjoy historical fantasy, martial arts, Chinese mythology, or if they just enjoy a good action sequence! This book is absolutely chock full of those. I was blown away by this book. I look forward to the continuation!

I love and audiobook format and I was so excited to listen to this! I tend to gravitate towards more YA novels and this really worked in my favor. The worldbuilding in this book did really well in setting the groundwork for the possibility of the next part of a series. I think if you're in the mood for a book rooted in adventure, then this one is for you.

Thank you to Netgalley and St. Martin's Press for providing me with this eARC!